Brookies

If you’ve ever stood in front of the dessert aisle, torn between grabbing a chocolate chip cookie or a rich, fudgy brownie, this recipe is for you. Enter Brookies—a delightful combination of brownies and chocolate chip cookies baked together in perfect harmony. These decadent bars are fudgy, chewy, and irresistibly chocolatey, making them the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover.

Whether you’re planning a bake sale, holiday gathering, or just want to indulge in a sweet treat after dinner, Brookies are guaranteed to satisfy every craving. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, so you don’t have to choose between cookies or brownies ever again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Double the Chocolate: A rich brownie base topped with a chocolate chip cookie layer makes every bite indulgent.
• Easy to Make: No complicated techniques—just follow the steps, and you’ll have bakery-quality bars at home.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 12–15 generous bars, ideal for parties, potlucks, or gift boxes.
• Texture Heaven: Fudgy, chewy, and slightly crisp edges—this recipe hits all the perfect textures.
• Customizable: Add extra chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of caramel for your twist.

Ingredients Breakdown

Brownie Layer

• 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour (measured properly)
• 1/2 cup (57g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups (310g) sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk

Cookie Layer

• 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour (measured properly)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (112g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (52g) sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups (211g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Yield: 12–15 bars
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium-sized mixing bowls
• Large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or hand whisk)
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Add eggs and egg yolk, mixing until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Layer

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step is crucial—don’t skimp on the creaming.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix just until combined. Do not overmix. Use a rubber spatula to form the dough into a cohesive ball.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 4: Assemble the Brookies

Grab small portions of cookie dough, flatten slightly, and place over the brownie layer. Aim to cover as evenly as possible. You can also sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 22–25 minutes or until edges are set and the top is lightly golden. The center should be set but may have a slight jiggle. This ensures the Brookies remain fudgy.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift out the Brookies and slice into 12–15 bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Best if eaten within 4–5 days.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Chocolate: Mix in chunks of chocolate or chocolate-covered espresso beans for a richer flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Walnuts or pecans can be folded into either the brownie or cookie layer.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free butter. Cocoa powder and chocolate chips should also be vegan.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both layers. Texture may vary slightly but still delicious.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking for a gooey, extra indulgent treat.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Brookies are rich and chocolate-forward with a subtle sweetness from the cookie layer. The brownie base is fudgy and dense, while the cookie layer provides a soft, chewy contrast. The slight crisp on the edges makes every bite satisfying.

Side Dish Ideas:

• Fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast
• Vanilla ice cream for a classic brownie sundae experience
• Whipped cream for extra indulgence

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	503
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	62.9 g
Sugars	40.7 g
Fat	27.3 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Fiber	3 g
Cholesterol	73.9 mg
Sodium	219.6 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Brownie Layer in Advance: You can prepare and bake the brownie layer a day ahead, then add the cookie dough and bake on the day you want to serve.
• Storage: Store Brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Slice into individual bars and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I make Brookies in a smaller pan?
Yes, adjust baking time slightly and watch closely—the center will take less time to set.

2. Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips?
Absolutely. Chunks provide a gooier, melty texture.

3. Do I need to refrigerate Brookies?
No, they store perfectly at room temperature. Refrigeration can make them slightly firm.

4. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and extend baking time by 5–10 minutes.

5. How do I get perfectly flat Brookies?
Flatten the cookie dough slightly before baking and spread evenly across the brownie layer.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep Brownie Layer	10 min
Prep Cookie Dough	20 min
Assemble	5 min
Bake	22–25 min
Cool & Slice	10 min
Total	1 hr 7 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Garnish with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish
• Add fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair

Recipe Variations

1. Peanut Butter Brookies: Add 1/2 cup peanut butter to the cookie dough.
2. Mint Chocolate Brookies: Fold 1/2 tsp peppermint extract into the cookie dough.
3. Espresso Brookies: Mix 1 tsp instant coffee powder into the brownie batter for a mocha twist.
4. Nutty Brookies: Add 1 cup chopped walnuts to the brownie layer before adding the cookie dough.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cocoa Powder: Choose natural, unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor. Store in a cool, dry place. Sift before mixing to avoid lumps.

Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the perfect balance of sweetness and rich chocolate. High-quality chocolate chips melt beautifully and enhance the texture of the cookie layer.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Butter and eggs at room temperature create a smoother, creamier cookie dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing either batter can result in dense or tough bars.
• Use Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean slicing.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Airtight container for 4–5 days
• Freezing: Slice individually, wrap in parchment and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Warm in microwave for 15–20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature

Expanded Conclusion

Brookies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who struggles to choose between cookies and brownies. With a fudgy brownie base and a chewy, chocolate chip cookie top, these bars are decadent, comforting, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

Every bite combines the best of both worlds: soft, chewy, rich, and indulgent. They’re simple to make yet feel luxurious, proving that you don’t need a professional bakery to create a show-stopping dessert at home.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these Brookies will disappear fast—so bake extra! Share them with friends, gift them during the holidays, or enjoy a quiet night indulging in chocolate bliss. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why Brookies have captured the hearts of cookie and brownie lovers alike.

Happy baking, and remember—life is better with Brookies!

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